The spelling of the word "peruse" can be tricky as it doesn't sound the way it looks. The IPA phonetic transcription for "peruse" is /pəˈruːz/. This means that the word is pronounced without emphasizing the first syllable, with a short "u" sound, and a long "oo" sound for the second syllable. The "e" at the end of "peruse" is silent, making the final sound "ooz" instead of "use". Despite its tricky spelling, "peruse" is a common word meaning to read carefully or scrutinize.
Peruse is a verb that indicates the act of reading, examining, or studying something carefully or comprehensively. When one peruses a text or document, they typically engage in a thorough reading with the intention of understanding, analyzing, or evaluating its content.
The word peruse often implies a deliberate or thoughtful approach to reading. It suggests more than a cursory glance or a casual skim; instead, it indicates a focused and attentive reading to gather information or derive meaning from the material being perused.
Perusing can involve a variety of texts or documents, including books, articles, reports, contracts, or any written material that warrants careful scrutiny. It is commonly employed in academic and professional contexts, where deep reading and critical analysis are often essential.
The term also carries connotations of active engagement, suggesting a frame of mind that is actively seeking information, insights, or answers. When one peruses a document, they are typically seeking to comprehend its contents thoroughly or to extract key points, ideas, or details from it.
Overall, peruse is a multifaceted verb that encompasses the actions of reading, scrutinizing, and evaluating written material with care, focus, and critical attention. It is a term that often implies a thorough exploration and understanding of the text being perused.
To read with attention; to read through.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "peruse" originated from Middle English, derived from the Old French word "peruser", which meant "to examine carefully". This Old French term, in turn, finds its roots in the Latin word "per-", meaning "thoroughly", and "usus", meaning "use". Over time, the meaning of "peruse" shifted from "to examine with great care" to its contemporary usage, which often implies a casual or quick reading.